China-Nepal border disaster: 1,000-plus missing as Beijing sends rescue teams

Search efforts have been expanded on both sides, with 484 tourists from at least 26 countries among those unaccounted for

A massive mudslide and flash flood struck the Gyirong Port area along the China-Nepal border on Wednesday, leaving at least 160 people dead and more than 1,000 missing across both sides of the divide.

According to the latest official update from the Shigatse municipal government press conference on Thursday morning, three people have been confirmed dead and 558 remain missing on the Chinese side.

Two survivors have been rescued. Earlier figures of 265 missing were revised upwards as search efforts expanded, according to the update.

Chinese authorities have mobilised more than 1,500 personnel, including firefighters, military troops and engineering teams. Vice-Premier Zhang Guoqing has arrived at the scene to direct operations.

A barrier lake has formed near the port, complicating rescue efforts, according to state broadcaster CCTV.

Nepal police reported late on Wednesday that 157 bodies had been recovered.